Minors were released, others arrived at the Presidential Mansion

119 people discharged He reached the Presidential Villa in Abuja by the court on charges linked to Tuesday’s #EndBadGovernance protest.

PREMIUM TIMES reports that the protesters (minors and adults) were discharged by the Federal High Court, Abuja, after the court quashed treason charges against them.

The trial judge, Obiora Egwatu, dropped the case after the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF), MD Abubakar, announced the withdrawal of the case in response to public outrage.

Mr Abubakar, who represents the AGF in exercise of the authority of the Attorney General of the Federation under Article 174 of the Nigerian constitution, first announced that he had taken over the case from the police before filing for withdrawal on Tuesday.

Defense lawyers Femi Falana and Hamza Kyari did not oppose the application.

President Bola Tinubu had called for the release of the protesters following widespread criticism of their detention, especially of minors.

Shettima speaks

At the Presidential Villa on Tuesday, Vice President Kashim Shettima welcomed the released persons on behalf of President Tinubu and initiated the process of transferring them to the custody of the respective state governors.

Among those present were Kaduna Governor Uba Sani and Kano Governor Abba Yusuf, representing the states from which most of the protesters originate.

Senate Deputy President Jibrin Barau, House Appropriations Committee Chairman Abubakar Bichi and several federal ministers, including officials from Education, Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and Environment, also attended the meeting.

In his speech, Mr. Shettima warned the released suspects not to allow themselves to be used for violent activities.

“Over N300 billion was lost in the protests, mostly consisting of loss of private property and business.

“I will urge you, I will advise you, you are our children, use the opportunity of the generous gesture of the President to enable you to overcome and become responsible citizens who will contribute to the growth of society,” Mr. Shettima said.

The Vice President also emphasized unity by calling on governors and state representatives to ensure the reintegration and rehabilitation of released protesters.

“I will appeal to our governors and elected representatives here to eliminate political division, to overcome all forms of divisions, which is what holds us together as citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he added.

Women’s Affairs Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim said on Sunday. in question It was stated that 52 of those detained were minors.

“Communication continues with the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Justice, the judiciary and correctional institutions, in order to accelerate the cases of these children and ensure that they are heard in juvenile courts as required by law,” he said.

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“Children’s welfare is actively monitored and the Department collaborates with children’s rights advocates to ensure that no child is subjected to unnecessary harm, discrimination or mistreatment.

“Plans are in place to work closely with child protection services to provide post-release psychological counselling, social support and rehabilitation to facilitate the reintegration of these children into their communities.”

In collaboration with stakeholders, the Ministry is also exploring educational opportunities that will support children’s growth and well-being beyond this challenging experience.